“Use of Deadly Force Investigation 04/05/2025” - pcfit

On April 5th, 2025, members of the Pierce County Force Investigation

Team responded to the 500 block of Valley Av NE in Puyallup to

investigate a report of an officer involved shooting. While the investigation

is still in the preliminary stages, the following synopsis has been developed.

On April 5th, 2025, at approximately 12:25pm, Pierce County Deputies were

dispatched to an armed robbery in the 10400 block of Portland Av E where

a vehicle was reportedly taken from a citizen.

At approximately 12:27pm, Tacoma Police were dispatched to a multi-car

collision at 56th / Pacific Av. One of the described involved vehicles was very

similar to the vehicle taken in the 10400 block. As officers were arriving at

this location, they were advised of another carjacking occurring nearby

involving the same described male.

At approximately 12:39pm, a Tacoma Officer located this involved (stolen)

vehicle around E 35th / E D St. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle,

and a pursuit ensued. The vehicle was pursued onto River Rd in Puyallup

where Puyallup Officers became involved. Spike strips were successfully

deployed in the 1500 block of River Rd. The pursuit came to an end in the

500 block of Valley Av E as the vehicle became disabled.

At the conclusion of the pursuit, the suspect exited the vehicle with a

weapon in hand. He was given commands to drop the weapon and cease

his movement. The suspect came towards the officers and shots were

fired.

Officers provided medical aid to the suspect prior to the arrival of

medics/fire department. Additional aid was provided; however, the

suspect was declared deceased on scene. No officers were injured during

this incident.

The ongoing investigation will be conducted by PCFIT with subsequent

weekly press releases.